The Short Answer: Yes, It’s Illegal
In the UK, cycling on the pavement is generally illegal unless the pavement is officially marked as shared-use for both cyclists and pedestrians. This rule applies to all types of bicycles, including electric bikes (e-bikes) and mountain bikes.
The only exceptions apply to children below the age of criminal responsibility and designated shared paths marked by official signage.
What the Law Says About Cycling on Pavements
The key legislation governing this issue is the Highways Act 1835, Section 72, which states:
“If any person shall wilfully ride upon any footpath or causeway made or set apart for the use or accommodation of foot passengers… every person so offending shall forfeit and pay a penalty.”
This nearly 200-year-old law is still enforced today and applies across England, Wales, and Scotland. Local councils and police officers are responsible for enforcing it through warnings or fixed penalty notices.
Are There Any Exceptions to the Rule?
Yes, but they are limited and specific.
You may legally cycle on a pavement if:
- The pavement is designated as a shared-use path or cycleway, clearly marked with official blue signs showing both a pedestrian and a bicycle symbol.
- You are a child under 10 years old in England and Wales (or under 8 in Scotland). Children below the age of criminal responsibility cannot be prosecuted.
- You are walking your bike, rather than riding it — this counts as pedestrian activity, not cycling.
🔹 Tip: If you’re unsure whether a path is shared-use, look for blue circular signs with pedestrian and bicycle icons. If no sign is present, assume cycling is not allowed.
What Are the Penalties for Cycling on the Pavement?
Cycling on the pavement is a criminal offence under the Highways Act 1835.
- The usual penalty is a Fixed Penalty Notice (FPN) of £50.
- However, police officers have discretion to issue a warning instead of a fine, especially for:
- Young or inexperienced riders.
- Cyclists riding on pavements due to safety concerns.
In some cases, local councils may set different enforcement priorities — for instance, focusing more on dangerous riding rather than technical breaches.
Why Some Cyclists Use Pavements Anyway
While the law is clear, many cyclists still ride on pavements — often out of fear for their safety on busy or poorly maintained roads.
Common reasons include:
- Lack of dedicated cycle lanes.
- Narrow or high-traffic roads.
- Concern for personal safety, especially at night or in rural areas.
Even though enforcement officers may exercise discretion, cycling on pavements can still result in fines — and more importantly, can endanger or inconvenience pedestrians.
🚴♂️ Safe Alternative: Use cycling maps or apps such as CycleStreets or Komoot to plan safer, bike-friendly routes that avoid pedestrian pathways.
How to Stay Within the Law as a Cyclist
To avoid penalties and ensure safe cycling:
- Use Designated Cycle Lanes: Always use marked cycle paths or shared-use pavements when available.
- Plan Ahead: Check local cycling maps for safe routes.
- Obey Signage: Only cycle on pavements where clear blue “shared path” signs are displayed.
- Dismount When Necessary: If you must use the pavement, get off your bike and walk it.
- Respect Pedestrians: Always give way to pedestrians, especially on shared paths.
- Stay Informed: Cycling laws can vary slightly by local authority — always check your council’s guidelines.
What to Do If You’re Stopped by Police
If you’re stopped for cycling on a pavement:
- Stay calm and polite. Arguing will not help.
- Explain your reason if you were cycling for safety reasons (e.g., avoiding fast traffic).
- Accept the warning or fine if issued.
- If you believe you were unfairly penalised, you can appeal the fine or seek legal advice.
⚖️ Note: Police are encouraged to use discretion and avoid penalising vulnerable cyclists where no danger or nuisance was caused.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can kids cycle on the pavement legally?
Yes. Children under 10 years old in England and Wales (under 8 in Scotland) are below the age of criminal responsibility and can legally cycle on pavements.
Q2: Are e-scooters treated the same way?
Yes. Privately owned e-scooters are currently illegal to use on pavements, cycle lanes, or public roads under UK law.
Q3: Can I cycle on pavements if I feel unsafe on the road?
Legally, no. However, police may use discretion if you are riding cautiously and without endangering pedestrians.
Q4: What if there’s no cycle lane available?
You must ride on the road unless signage specifically allows shared use of the pavement.
Q5: Is pushing a bike on the pavement allowed?
Yes. Walking your bike is considered pedestrian activity and is completely legal.
Q6: How do I know if a pavement is shared-use?
Look for blue circular signs showing a pedestrian and bicycle icon — these mark shared paths where cycling is permitted.
Conclusion
So, is it illegal to cycle on the pavement in the UK?
In most cases, yes — unless the pavement is clearly marked as a shared-use path. While many cyclists ride on pavements out of safety concerns, the law is designed to protect pedestrians and maintain public order.
To avoid fines and ensure safety, always plan your route, respect signage, and use designated cycleways wherever possible. If in doubt, dismount and walk your bike — it’s the safest and most lawful option.
For fixed-fee legal help with your case,
contact Martin Taggart — your trusted UK legal partner.